About Us
Memphis Tourism Foundation – philanthropic arm of Memphis Convention and Visitors Bureau – pursues a mission targeting workforce development, positive self-image, and advocacy.
As a result, it develops multi-dimensional plans that range from connecting training program graduates with existing jobs to a Web-based internal image campaign, from showing that legendary Memphis music continues today to sponsoring speakers talking about cutting edge issues affecting cities, and from a tourism worker recognition program to insiders guides for Memphis.
The Tourism Foundation was created in 2002 by the Memphis CVB, the umbrella organization marketing Memphis to national and international markets. In its work, the Foundation spotlights the cultural and ethnic diversity found in Memphis and emphasizes the authenticity of the city’s character.
The Foundation – a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation - is led by CVB Vice-President Calvin Taylor and a board of directors. Members of the board are:
Chairman
Pat Mitchell-Worley, The Memphis Music Foundation
Secretary
Board Members
- David Acey, Africa in April Festival, Inc., University of Memphis
- Ekundayo Bandele, Hattiloo Theatre
- Kevin Brewer, Destination King Inc.
- Eric Brey, Kemmons Wilson School, University of Memphis
- Judy Davis, Ornamental Metal Museum
- Shirley Davis Conner, Elvis Presley Enterprises
- Romalic Jones, Inner Changing Souls Church
- Jerry Klein, Kossman-Klein & Company
- Steven Leake, Southwest Tennessee Community College
- Marty Marbry, State of Tennessee Department of Tourism
- Deanie Parker, Independent Consultant
- R. Lemoyne Robinson, Influence 1 Foundation
- Tim Sampson, Soulsville, American Museum of American Soul Music
- Willie E. Slate, Memphis City Schools
- Dwayne Spencer, Habitat for Humanity
- Lori Spicer, The Regional Medical Center at Memphis
- Tricia Weatherford, Residence Inn
- Kevin Kane, Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, ex-officio
- Calvin Taylor, Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, ex-officio
